Popular reality TV show Sizok’thola is once again making headlines after viewers pointed out that the programme recently featured the arrest of the same alleged drug dealer who had already been caught in an earlier episode. The revelation has sparked outrage on social media, with many South Africans questioning the effectiveness of the country’s justice system and the true impact of the show’s operations.
Repeat Arrest Raises Eyebrows
The controversy began after the episode aired on Moja Love on Sunday, 28 September 2025. Host Xolani Khumalo, who has built a reputation as a fearless crime-buster, was shown apprehending a suspected drug dealer identified as Mandende. Shortly after the broadcast, social media user @AyandaYandiey posted screenshots online, claiming that this was not the first time Khumalo had arrested the same suspect.
The post quickly went viral, reigniting debates about whether the show’s efforts are being undermined by weak legal consequences. The caption read: “X is arresting Mandende for the second time 💔 she doesn’t want to stop. #Sizokthola.”
For many, the fact that the same person appeared on the programme twice in connection with drug crimes highlighted the glaring flaws in South Africa’s criminal justice system.
Viewers Voice Their Frustrations
The incident sparked a flood of reactions from concerned viewers, with many expressing disappointment. Some felt the show was failing to address the larger structures behind drug trafficking, while others accused the legal system of leniency.
Twitter user @Anam_Myolwa argued: “This doesn’t help. The whole Sizok’thola thing is about catching small people.”
Another user, @Tom47096338, highlighted what they believed to be a lack of seriousness from the justice system: “Drug trafficking is not treated as a serious offence in South Africa. If you are unlucky, you might get three years, serve one, and be released. That’s why the same people Xolani arrests are back on the streets.”
Others accused the show of misleading viewers. @Muzi03636991 commented: “X is fooling us. These people are getting caught for the second time, yet they keep operating in plain sight.”
Many echoed the sentiment that the courts and law enforcement were not doing enough. “How come she’s out after being found with drugs? Are the courts no longer prosecuting drug-related crimes?” asked @essimelane.
https://x.com/MojaLoveTv/status/1973023666733719904?t=8iiQgVNOmc5Hx7qoD0bA5A&s=19
Spotlight on South Africa’s Justice System
The repeat arrest has once again shone a spotlight on the difficulties facing South Africa’s fight against drug abuse and trafficking. For critics, the situation proves that even when suspects are exposed on national television, they face few consequences. Instead of dismantling drug networks, the arrests often end up as temporary disruptions.
Others believe the show is doing important work by exposing the failures of the system. For them, Sizok’thola highlights the need for deeper reform in how the police and courts handle such crimes.
Moja Love vs SAPS
The controversy also follows a recent clash between Moja Love and the South African Police Service (SAPS). According to reports, the channel has taken legal action against SAPS after its requests related to crime-fighting shows Sizok’thola and Vimba were denied.
While some South Africans defended SAPS, many accused the police of corruption and inefficiency, arguing that Moja Love is stepping in where the authorities have failed.
Conclusion
The repeated bust of the same alleged drug dealer has not only raised questions about the credibility of Sizok’thola but also reignited debates about South Africa’s criminal justice system. For viewers, the episode was less about entertainment and more a reflection of the country’s ongoing struggle with crime, corruption, and accountability.
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